By the same owner of Lotus Blue in Houhai, Lantung Thai Bar + Bistro is the perfect blend between traditional Thai elegance and modern chic flair. Derived from the legendary tree that grows in the Theravada Buddhism heaven, the name Lantung is inspired by this tree’s reincarnation name, Leelawadee. A seductive and tasteful new concept, Lantung Thai Bar + Bistro is an exquisite three-story lounge serving the most exotic Thai-flavored cocktails and tapas in town.

Everybody Lantung Tonight

Thai tapas bar and bistro Lantung offers sanctuary from the booming beats and glitz that drive Beijing nightlife. Referencing the Leelawadee Buddhist myth, Lantung is built around a golden tree, which begins at its basement-level fish pond, continues through the first- and second-floor lounges and emerges on a gorgeous roof deck. Yet beyond its mystical lounge décor and chill-out beats, there is far more at work than just Beijing-meets-Buddha-Bar aesthetics. Lantung's menu pairs each of its fresh fruit cocktails with a specific Thai tapas. The pineapple-infused vodka and mint cocktail (¥50) perfectly compliments the barbecue shrimp and pineapple skewers (¥55) for example. A cinnamon-infused vodka and fresh apple juice cocktail (¥50) tastes almost like apple pie and pairs with the hot and sour beef spring rolls (¥55). If you want to try to mix some of these concoctions on your own, you can buy a bottle of house infused vodkas for just ¥110. Lantung is an ideal place for a date, drinks among a group of friends or even a late-night Buddha call.

By Blake Stone-Banks